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Behind the Scenes: Cubby O'Brien’s Mickey Mouse Club Audition Nov 02, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Broadway Drumming 101 podcast, we’re thrilled to have the legendary Cubby O'Brien, one of the original Mouseketeers from The Mickey Mouse Club! Cubby takes us back to his early years, sharing how his musical journey began with his father teaching at a Sun Valley, California music school. He describes being part of a Dixieland band made up of young musicians who performed at various venues around Hollywood, from Rotary Club events to charity shows for the Screen Actors Guild. During one of these performances, his drumming skills caught the attention of Disney producers, leading to his audition for The Mickey Mouse Club—a gig that launched his storied career.

Cubby also shares insights from his remarkable journey as a drummer, having played with legends like Ann-Margret, Lawrence Welk, and Bernadette Peters. His extensive Broadway career includes shows like The Producers, Hair, Oh! Calcutta!, and touring as the drummer for The Carpenters. Throughout the episode, Cubby offers anecdotes and lessons from decades of experience in the entertainment world.

Subscribe to hear Cubby’s stories, tips, and reflections from a lifetime in music and show business!

Carl "Cubby" O'Brien, born July 14, 1946, in Sun Valley, California, is an accomplished American drummer and former child actor, best known as one of the original Mouseketeers on The Mickey Mouse Club (1955–1958). Discovered by Disney talent scouts at a Screen Actors Guild benefit in 1954, Cubby became the youngest male to audition for the show, securing his spot after a simple yet memorable rendition of "Happy Birthday." After his time with Disney, Cubby pursued his true passion for drumming, performing with bands around Los Angeles, including a two-year stint with Spike Jones, which opened doors to major acts. He went on to work with legendary artists such as Ann-Margret, Shirley MacLaine, and Diana Ross, and spent ten years touring with The Carpenters after meeting them on The Carol Burnett Show.

Cubby’s prolific career extends to Broadway and television, with notable performances in productions such as West Side Story, Hair, The Producers, and Gypsy. He has also lent his drumming talents to movie soundtracks, including Grease, Change of Habit, and Gypsy. In addition to his extensive stage and screen credits, Cubby has played drums for Siegfried and Roy in Las Vegas and continues to perform in the Broadway production of Chicago. Throughout his career, he has worked with an array of stars, from Bernadette Peters to Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, and remains a respected figure in the music industry. Cubby currently resides with his wife, a University of Oregon graduate, having recently relocated from New York.

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

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Nathan Lane’s Hilarious Advice to Cubby O'Brien: Never Leave Again! Oct 29, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Broadway Drumming 101 podcast, legendary drummer Cubby O'Brien shares a memorable story about subbing out of his first Broadway show and an unexpected encounter with Nathan Lane. When a stage manager informed Cubby that Nathan Lane wanted to see him in his dressing room, Cubby was slightly surprised. After finding his way upstairs, Nathan greeted him with a joking, "You can never leave again," followed by laughter and reassurance that everything was fine after a few nights of adjustment.

Cubby explores the real challenge of subbing as a drummer on Broadway. He explains how Nathan Lane got used to his playing style and how every drummer strikes the drum differently; even the slightest variation can be noticeable. Cubby calls it a “thankless job,” where subs must maintain the established feel of the show while replicating the chairholder's unique sound as closely as possible.

Throughout the episode, Cubby offers insights from his extensive experience with shows like Hair, The Producers, and The Carpenters’ Tour. He underscores the importance of adaptability, consistency, and precision for subs trying to blend seamlessly. This episode is packed with wisdom!

Cubby’s prolific career extends to Broadway and television, with notable performances in productions such as West Side Story, Hair, The Producers, and Gypsy. He has also lent his drumming talents to movie soundtracks, including Grease, Change of Habit, and Gypsy. In addition to his extensive stage and screen credits, Cubby has played drums for Siegfried and Roy in Las Vegas and continues to perform in the Broadway production of Chicago. Throughout his career, he has worked with various stars, from Bernadette Peters to Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, and remains a respected figure in the music industry. Cubby resides with his wife, a University of Oregon graduate who recently relocated from New York.

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Buddy Rich’s Favorite Drummer: Cubby O'Brien on Karen Carpenter Oct 26, 2024

Show notes

In this podcast episode, I sit down with the legendary Cubby O'Brien, whom I had the pleasure of meeting earlier this year on a Broadway cruise where I was performing with several acts, and he was with the iconic Bernadette Peters. Cubby, best known for his time on The Mickey Mouse Club and touring with The Carpenters, has had a remarkable career on Broadway, drumming for shows like Annie Get Your Gun, The Producers, and Beauty and the Beast.

In this chat, we dive into his incredible experiences, including a memorable moment when Buddy Rich told Karen Carpenter she was his favorite drummer!

Please tune in to hear it all, and remember to subscribe and share!

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Cubby O'Brien on Choosing Dependable Subs for Shows Oct 24, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I had the chance to talk with one of the most respected drummers in the business, Cubby O'Brien. We chatted about the process of picking subs for Broadway gigs—a topic that’s critical for anyone looking to make it in the scene.

Cubby breaks down what he looks for in a sub: dependability, solid playing, and being an established player in New York. He shouts out legends like Ray Marchica and Larry Lelli, both of whom he trusted to step into the drum chair without a second thought.

Cubby talks about how it’s not just about finding someone who can play the part—it’s about finding someone who gets the job done under pressure.

Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Making Each Show Feel Like the First Oct 17, 2024

Show notes

Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this video, Damien Bassman explains why every performance should be treated with the same dedication, whether it's someone's first Broadway show or a special occasion. He emphasizes respect for the material and the audience's experience.

Listen to the podcast below for more of Damien's wisdom!

Clayton Craddock is the founder of Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include: tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Networking and the Importance of Using Platforms Like MeetHook.com Oct 12, 2024

Show notes

In this video, Dena Tauriello, drummer for Little Shop of Horrors and a sub for Hamilton and several others, discusses what it takes to make it on Broadway in a group podcast that you can listen to here:

Dena shares her experience about the importance of networking in the industry and how she's often asked to grab a coffee or chat about the business, but due to her busy schedule, she appreciates a more focused approach—like using platforms such as MeetHook.com.

With MeetHook, you can book time to ask questions, get mentorship, or take lessons directly from professionals like Dena, making it easier to connect and learn. Whether you want to know about subbing for Broadway or improving your drumming skills, this is a great way to get personalized advice!

Hit the subscribe button, share this video with anyone who could benefit, and check out MeetHook.com to book a session with top professionals!

Why MeetHook?

Personal Interaction: MeetHook allows you to book sessions with your favorite drummers, including myself.

Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Subscribed

Sign up to add me and other renowned drummers to your favorites. Once I post my available times, you can easily book a session.

Tailored for Musicians: The platform is designed with musicians in mind, making it easy to search for and connect with hosts based on name, affiliation, skill, or keyword. Whether you're looking for a lesson, career advice, or answers to burning questions, MeetHook provides a seamless experience.

Endless Possibilities: Every MeetHook session is unique and potentially life-changing. The platform enables connections that might otherwise never happen, offering a personal touch that can inspire and elevate your musical journey.

Some of Broadway’s best are on this platform:

Andrés Forero: https://app.meethook.com/#/dashboard/hostprofile/7685

Jared Schonig: https://app.meethook.com/#/dashboard/hostprofile/7281

Karl Latham: https://app.meethook.com/#/dashboard/hostprofile/8217

Sean McDaniel: https://app.meethook.com/#/dashboard/hostprofile/7646

Dena Tauriello: https://app.meethook.com/#/dashboard/hostprofile/2109

User Testimonials:

* Chris Coleman (Beck, Prince, Stevie Wonder, Sheila E.): "MeetHook goes beyond lessons; it makes dreams come true. Trust me!"

* Zoro (Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown): "MeetHook is an amazing idea! The ability to call up one of my favorite drummers would have been a dream come true."

* Rich Redmond (Jason Aldean): "MeetHook is streamlined, fun, and easy to use. It's a win-win for connecting and sharing expertise."

* Mark Guiliana (David Bowie, Matisyahu, John Scofield, Matt Cameron): "The spontaneity of MeetHook is its strongest attribute."

* Stephen Perkins (Jane's Addiction, Porno for Pyros): "MeetHook levels the playing field for sought-after information. The exchange of knowledge is priceless."

How to Get Started

* Sign Up: Visit meethook.com and create your account.

* Download the App: Get the MeetHook app on your iPhone or Android.

* Explore and Connect: Search for your favorite drummers, including me, and get notified when we're available for a personal video call.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to connect with top drummers in the Broadway scene. Sign up now, add me as a favorite, and stay tuned for my available times. Feel free to explore and connect with other incredible musicians on the platform, too!

Book a Lesson, Get Advice, Make a Connection, or Get Your Burning Questions Answered… The possibilities are endless with MeetHook!

Clayton Craddock is the founder of Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK!

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Podcast #82 -Andrés Forero Oct 10, 2024

Show notes

In this special episode of Broadway Drumming 101, host Clayton Craddock sits down with Andrés Forero and an incredible lineup of musicians currently subbing in Hamilton. Forero is joined by Alex Giosa, Juan Felipe Mayorga, Dena Tauriello, and Ryan McCausland as they discuss the unique challenges of being a sub in one of Broadway’s most complex and iconic shows.

FEATURING: @andresforeroofficial @denatauriello @juanfeniche @ryanmccauslanddrums @alexg_drums

Alex Giosa delivered some invaluable: "Don’t practice until you get it right—practice until you can’t get it wrong." He shared how this philosophy has shaped his approach to preparing for Hamilton, where the level of perfection expected is incredibly high. Alex also spoke about how subbing has sharpened his ability to stay focused, ensuring that he’s in the zone and ready to perform flawlessly when he steps into the pit.

Ryan McCausland discussed the balance between acoustic and electronic drums in the show, particularly during the high-energy sections like Cabinet Battle 2. He stressed how important it is to adapt quickly to the feel of each instrument and the different dynamics it requires. Ryan also shared how maintaining professionalism and a positive attitude off-stage has been key to building a successful career as a sub.

Dena Tauriello, who also plays for Little Shop of Horrors, discussed the importance of honoring Andrés Forero’s original drum book. She meticulously studied his every note, fill, and dynamic choice, ensuring her performance stayed faithful to the original. Dena highlighted the mental and emotional stamina required to keep up with the demands of a show like Hamilton, where the intensity never lets up from start to finish.

Juan Felipe Mayorga shared his journey of preparation and adaptation, emphasizing the physical and mental endurance required to play this show night after night. Juan also reflected on the importance of the sense of community among subs—how they rely on each other for advice and support to ensure everyone is always at their best.

Andrés Forero, a TONY, GRAMMY, and EMMY award-winning drummer and percussionist, brings deep insight into his process and the importance of being prepared. Known for his work on Hamilton, In the Heights, and Bring It On!, Forero shares stories about his journey and the importance of paying it forward to the next generation of musicians.

This episode offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in Broadway drumming or understanding the behind-the-scenes demands of a hight profile musical.

Don’t miss out on this must-listen episode!

Support Broadway Drumming 101To continue producing high-quality content and sharing insights from the world of Broadway, we would appreciate your support. You can contribute through the following options:

* Become a subscriber at Broadway Drumming 101

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Stay tuned for more episodes, and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for notifications on new content!

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

What It Takes to Be a Successful Broadway Sub Oct 08, 2024

Show notes

A special episode of the Broadway Drumming 101 podcast is coming soon. It will feature Andrés Forero and a talented group of subs currently performing in Hamilton.

I had the chance to sit down with Andrés, Alex Giosa, Juan Felipe Mayorga, Dena Tauriello, and Ryan McCausland to talk about the unique challenges and behind-the-scenes experiences of subbing for one of Broadway’s most demanding shows.

In this video, Dena Tauriello, drummer for Little Shop of Horrors and a sub for Hamilton and other Broadway shows, talks about the hard work that goes into subbing. Dena explains how every gig, whether it’s playing your own shows or opening for huge acts like The Rolling Stones, taught her something she could use in a Broadway pit. She also spent countless hours learning every note and fill for Hamilton, respecting the original drummer’s work and making sure she played it exactly as written. It's all about being prepared and not trying to change things up—everyone is relying on you to get it right!

Thanks for reading Broadway Drumming 101! This post is public so feel free to share it.

If you found this helpful, don’t forget to subscribe and share this post with everyone you know who might benefit from it!

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

How Juan Felipe Mayorga Became a Sub on Hamilton Oct 06, 2024

Show notes

I chatted with Andrés, Alex Giosa, Juan Felipe Mayorga, Dena Tauriello, and Ryan McCausland about the behind-the-scenes experience and challenges of being a sub on such a challenging show.

In this video, Juan Felipe Mayorga talks about how he met Andres Forero and got the opportunity to sub on Hamilton. Juan, originally from Colombia, admired a jazz pianist named Hector Martino back in college. After moving to New York and studying at Drummers Collective, he connected with Hector, who introduced him to Andres. A casual meetup during an audition led Andres to invite Juan to watch Hamilton from the pit, eventually giving him the chance to sub for the show.

Make sure to subscribe to our channel and check out more interviews like this on Broadway Drumming 101! YouTubelink.

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe

Appreciating the Unsung Heroes of Broadway! Oct 04, 2024

Show notes

🎧 A new episode of the Broadway Drumming 101 podcast is coming soon, featuring Andrés Forero and the amazing subs at Hamilton!

Discover how these talented musicians handle the pressure of last-minute calls, the emotional intensity of the show, and the importance of being both great people and exceptional artists. Don't miss this insightful conversation on what it takes to be a successful Broadway sub!

Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform that provides specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.

Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.

For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com

CONNECT WITH ME ON MEETHOOK

Get full access to Broadway Bound and Beyond at www.broadwayboundandbeyond.com/subscribe